European Grandeur (Classic, Start London, End Amsterdam, 26 Days) (34 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 26-day multi-country adventure through Europe, where each day brings new discoveries and experiences. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, the historic charm of Rome, and the romantic canals of Venice, this tour offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy guided tours with local experts, savor regional delicacies, and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of each destination. With comfortable accommodations and seamless travel arrangements, this journey promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, leaving you with cherished memories and new friendships. Join us for an extraordinary exploration of Europe's most captivating cities and regions.
Included
7 Dinner with Wine (DW)
25 Breakfast (B)
1 Dinner (D)
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
San Sebastián: Enjoy an evening of pintxos, dining with locals in this Basque tradition. Your delicious dinner includes a wide variety of finger food delicacies, each with their own regional flavour, flair and presentation.
Venice: In St Marks Square at sunset, long after the day-trippers have gone to their mainland hotels, sip cocktails canal-side before dinner at a local restaurant.
Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
Amsterdam: Toast the culmination of your travels during a fabulous Celebration Dinner at a local restaurant.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Paris: Located on the Left Bank of the River Seine, Paris Marriott Rive Gauche hotel is a modern property offering luxurious accommodation within close proximity to the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Pres.
Bordeaux: The modern Pullman Bordeaux Lac is located on the lakefront and surrounded by vineyards.
Madrid: The unique Sercotel Gran Hotel Conde Duque near the Gran via of Madrid provides a lovely base for exploration of Madrid.
Avignon: The Cloître Saint-Louis has been recently-renovated and was originally a 16th century Jesuit building and a military hospital.
Nice: The Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice is set on a stunning seafront location along the famous Promenade des Anglais.
Rome: The Veneto Palace Hotel is located in the monumental and unique scenery of ancient Rome, not far from Piazza di Spagna, the Trevi Fountain and Villa Borghese, which is the largest park in central Rome. The guest rooms offer a classic style that blends in perfect harmony with the style of the building.
Venice: A hotel with traditional and modern elements, the Eurostars Residenza Cannaregio is complete with a door opening onto a canal.
Vienna: Set in the heart of Vienna and featuring contemporary decor, the award-winning Hilton Vienna hotel is one of Austria's premier hotels.
Lucerne: The Hotel Astoria is sat in the middle of all Lucerne has to offer, with magnificent mountains and astonishing culture.
Amsterdam The 5-star, Art Nouveau-style Grand Hotel Amrath is conveniently located minutes from Amsterdam city centre and offers breathtaking views over the canal.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
Maribor: Led by your Travel Director, explore this charming city, the second largest in Slovenia. Take a moment to appreciate the blend of old and new architecture.
Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbour.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Paris: Join a local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Paris: We walk up and down the "quartier" and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theatres, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighbourhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc's spectacular jardin vertical 'oasis d'Aboukir', the Napoleonic "Egyptian" district etc.
Vienna: Visit Capuchins' Crypt - the burial place of the Habsburg family in Vienna.
Vienna: Visit a traditional coffeehouse to enjoy Viennese specialities of coffee and Sachertorte.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Madrid: Visit the Reina Sofia Museum with an art historian and see Pablo Picasso's masterpiece Guernica, one of the world's greatest anti-war paintings. Alternatively, join a neighbourhood walking tour to discuss social equity empowerment and learn about the history of women's movements in Spain.
Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Rhineland: The beautiful scenery of the Rhine River is punctuated by the many castles dotted along its banks. Delight in a private estate viewing of one of these Rhineland castles and learn more about these living cultural monuments located along the Middle Rhine.
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Château de Chenonceau, known as the 'Ladies' Château' it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.
Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theatre, Triangle d'Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.
San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Gràcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi's extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerising Sagrada Família.
Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the Multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
Ljubljana: Explore this elegant capital with your Local Expert, to see the castle City Hall, Cathedral of St Nicholas and Triple Bridge.
Vienna: Join your Local Expert for a city tour that reveals both the renowned sights and hidden gems of Vienna's historic core. Travel along the Ring Road to see the Hofburg Imperial Residence, Opera House, Parliament Building and Karlskirche.
Salzburg: Join your Local Expert to visit the formal gardens of Mirabell Palace and Residence Square - both locations used in 'The Sound of Music.' You will also see the imposing fortress, the immense cathedral and Mozart's birthplace on the lively Getreidegasse.
Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the capital and is surrounded by year-round snow peaked mountains.
Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
Amsterdam: Cruise along the waterways, discovering the architectural gems of the old city, including mansions dating from the Golden Age of the 17th Century.
Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: London to Paris
- Paris - Arrival day
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Embark on a thrilling journey as you meet your Travel Director in London and board the high-speed Eurostar to Paris. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the city's iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Stroll along the River Seine and marvel at the grandeur of the Louvre. As evening falls, enjoy a delightful Welcome Dinner at a charming Parisian restaurant.
Day 2 – Day 2: Explore Paris
- Paris
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- Musée de Montmartre
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Today, delve deeper into the heart of Paris with an Insight Choice. Opt to explore the vibrant Montorgueil district or join a Local Expert to discover hidden culinary gems. The afternoon is yours to soak up the lively atmosphere of this enchanting city.
Day 3 – Day 3: Paris to Bordeaux
- Paris
- Bordeaux
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- Castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire
- Pont de Langeais
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Journey south through the picturesque Loire Valley, renowned for its stunning gardens and châteaux. Visit the elegant Chenonceau Castle, a masterpiece of French architecture. Continue to Bordeaux, a bustling port city with a rich 18th-century heritage.
Day 4 – Day 4: Bordeaux to San Sebastián
- Bordeaux
- Donostia / San Sebastián
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- The big bell of Bordeaux
- place de la Bourse
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Discover Bordeaux's architectural marvels with a guided tour, including the Grand Théâtre and Esplanade des Quinconces. Later, travel to the charming city of San Sebastián, where you'll enjoy a progressive dinner in the Old Town, sampling the region's famous pintxos and local wine.
Day 5 – Day 5: San Sebastián to Madrid
- Donostia / San Sebastián
- Madrid
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Travel through the scenic landscapes of northern Spain, emerging onto the plateau of New Castile. Arrive in Madrid, Spain's elegant capital, where you can explore the city's vibrant streets and enjoy an evening drive past its illuminated landmarks.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Madrid
- Madrid
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- Naval Museum
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Uncover the rich history of Madrid with a guided tour through its oldest neighborhoods. Visit the Reina Sofia Museum to admire Picasso's masterpiece, Guernica. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city's vibrant culture and cuisine.
Day 7 – Day 7: Madrid to Barcelona
- Madrid
- Barcelona
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Cross the Castilian plain and journey to the vibrant city of Barcelona. In the evening, savor the flavors of Catalan cuisine and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Montjuic as the sun sets.
Day 8 – Day 8: Explore Barcelona
- Barcelona
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- Sagrada Família
- Montjuïc Castle
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Join a Local Expert to explore Barcelona's Gothic Quarter and admire the stunning architecture of the Sagrada Família. Wander along the famous Ramblas and Passeig de Gràcia, taking in the city's unique blend of history and modernity.
Day 9 – Day 9: Barcelona to Avignon
- Barcelona
- Avignon
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Travel to the historic city of Avignon, where you'll see the famous Pont d'Avignon and explore the medieval streets of the Old Town. Stand in awe of the imposing Palais des Papes and enjoy a Farm-to-Table dinner, savoring traditional French cuisine.
Day 10 – Day 10: Avignon to Nice
- Avignon
- Nice
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- Promenade du Paillon
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Journey along the stunning French Riviera to the elegant city of Nice. Spend the day at your leisure, strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais or relaxing on the beach, soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
Day 11 – Day 11: Nice to Pisa via Monaco
- Nice
- Monaco
- Pisa
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- The Village of Fools
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Travel to Monaco and explore the glamorous city-state, including the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbor. Cross into Italy and visit Pisa's Square of Miracles to see the iconic Leaning Tower, cathedral, and baptistery.
Day 12 – Day 12: Pisa to Florence
- Pisa
- Florence
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- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazza della Signoria
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Explore the artistic treasures of Florence, starting with the marble-clad cathedral and baptistery. Visit Piazza della Signoria, an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces, and discover the luxury shops around Santa Croce Basilica.
Day 13 – Day 13: Florence to Rome
- Florence
- Rome
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Relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the Chianti hills and Umbria, arriving in Rome, the Eternal City. In the evening, savor a traditional Italian meal at a local restaurant.
Day 14 – Day 14: Explore the Vatican
- Rome
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
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Discover the grandeur of the Vatican with a Local Expert, visiting the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. Spend the afternoon exploring Rome's trendy boutiques or relaxing at a sidewalk café.
Day 15 – Day 15: Leisure in Rome
- Rome
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Enjoy a day at your own pace in Rome. Consider an optional excursion to Pompeii or indulge in shopping along Via del Corso and the elegant designer stores near the Spanish Steps.
Day 16 – Day 16: Rome to Venice
- Rome
- Venice
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Travel through the picturesque Tuscan landscapes and descend into the fertile Po Valley, arriving in Venice by boat. Enjoy a sunset cocktail serenaded by musicians, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 17 – Day 17: Discover Venice
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- St Mark's Basilica
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Embrace the romance of Venice as you visit the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Witness the artistry of glassblowers and enjoy a private cruise to St. Mark's Square, soaking in the city's rich history and culture.
Day 18 – Day 18: Venice to Ljubljana
- Venice
- Ljubljana
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Depart Venice and journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital. Explore Prešeren Square and the lively banks of the Ljubljanica River. Consider an optional excursion to the serene Lake Bled for a traditional pletna boat ride.
Day 19 – Day 19: Ljubljana to Vienna via Maribor
- Ljubljana
- Maribor
- Vienna
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Follow the Drava River to Maribor, a historic university town. Continue through the forested mountains of Styria, arriving in Vienna, Austria's majestic capital.
Day 20 – Day 20: Explore Vienna
- Vienna
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- Schönbrunn Palace
- Burgruine Mödling
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Begin your day with an optional tour of the opulent Schönbrunn Palace. Capture the beauty of Vienna's architectural masterpieces along the Ring Road. Join a Local Expert for a walk through the historic Innere Stadt and savor local delicacies at a traditional Viennese café.
Day 21 – Day 21: Vienna to Innsbruck via Salzburg
- Vienna
- Hallein
- Innsbruck
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- Mirabell Palace
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Travel to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and explore the Mirabell Palace gardens. Continue to Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, and admire the Golden Roof and Imperial Palace.
Day 22 – Day 22: Innsbruck to Lucerne via Vaduz
- Innsbruck
- Lucerne
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Journey through the picturesque landscapes of Liechtenstein, stopping in Vaduz, its tiny capital. Cross into Switzerland and arrive in Lucerne, where you'll visit the poignant Lion Monument.
Day 23 – Day 23: Explore Lucerne
- Lucerne
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- Stanserhorn
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Ascend Mount Stanserhorn on an eco-friendly cable car and enjoy breathtaking views. Spend the rest of the day exploring Lucerne's charming Old Town, shopping for Swiss watches and chocolates, or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the countryside.
Day 24 – Day 24: Lucerne to Königswinter
- Lucerne
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Travel through Germany's scenic landscapes, following the Rhine Valley north to the charming town of Königswinter. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way.
Day 25 – Day 25: Königswinter to Amsterdam
- Amsterdam
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- Are Castle
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Delight in a private viewing of a Rhineland castle and learn about its history over a glass of wine. Continue to Amsterdam and explore the city from the water with a canal cruise, admiring the elegant merchant houses and iconic bridges. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 26 – Day 26: Departure from Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you transfer to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport for your onward journey.
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